Q & A With Caryn Quinkert
Q: Why did you decide to become involved in our chapter of The Arc?
A: I was introduced to The Arc by our Executive Director Lori Ropa. We met through the Leadership Jefferson County program. She told me about the work of The Arc and once I attended my first Summit of Hope I was hooked. I wanted to volunteer because The Arc makes a such difference to the people we serve.
Q: Why do you choose to donate your time to The Arc?
A: I donate my time because I am giving to an organization that is truly making a difference in the community. I like how we make it a priority to include people with IDD in everything that we do. I enjoy working with my fellow board members, Lori, and the staff. We work together as a team and I love working with people with a common mission. It is rewarding to me.
Q: What has been among your proudest achievements on our board?
A: My proudest achievement was working on the Beacon Taskforce and the work we have done to create a board culture that prioritizes foresight in our decisions and board work.
Q: What moment defined you as a volunteer or to care about people with IDD?
A: I was at The Arc National Convention in Denver last November. When I took a step back, I realized that the convention was our mission in practice. People with IDD were integral to the conference. Every presentation that I went to either had a person with IDD giving the presentation, asking important questions, or giving their input into decisions that were being made. I realized that we just needed to communicate what we do and what we have accomplished to the community at large. If people could see our mission in action, we would go a long way in making it a reality.
Q: What is the most important issue our community is facing right now?
A: If I could work on one issue, it would be transportation. It seems like it is nearly impossible for a person with IDD who doesn't drive to get around in a timely and efficient manner.
Q: If you had a magic wand and could make the world a better place for people with IDD, what would you wish for and what changes would you make?
A: I would have a world where people with IDD are seen as just people. They would be seen not as a person with IDD but they would be seen for all that they bring to the community.
Q: How has being a part of The Arc-JCCGC community influenced you?
A: I have a new understanding regarding just how amazing this community is and how much courage and strength the self-advocates possess. Their stories inspire me to be more courageous.
Q: What advice do you have for others who are interested in applying to be on The Arc – JCCGC’s board?
A: This is an amazing organization to volunteer your time. The people are amazing to work with, and it is work that makes a difference to the people we serve.
